The dated events we have verified at the Empire State Plaza are the Mystic Fair (October 21–22, 2026), the Diwali Festival of Lights (October 24, 4–9 p.m.), the Healthy Living Expo (November 4) and the First Friday Evening Capitol Tour (November 6, 5:30 p.m.). Last season's ice rink opened December 5 and the tree lighting was December 7; 2026–27 winter dates had not been announced when we read the listings. This is not a complete calendar. Dates change, so confirm with organizers.
Events in Albany
Albany events with verified dates, plus how to check live music calendars.
Verified dates
| Event | Date | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Mystic Fair | October 21–22, 2026, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. | Empire State Plaza |
| Diwali Festival of Lights | October 24, 2026, 4–9 p.m. | Empire State Plaza |
| Healthy Living Expo | November 4, 2026, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Empire State Plaza |
| First Friday Evening Capitol Tour | November 6, 2026, 5:30 p.m. | Empire State Plaza |
| Be A King Volunteer Fair | January 13, 2027, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Empire State Plaza |
How this page is maintained
We review dates monthly; last review October 16, 2026. Past events are removed after they end.
What's on through the year
The recurring events worth planning around.
Frequently asked questions
What events happen in Albany?
We have verified several Empire State Plaza events. See Discover Albany for others.
When is the tree lighting?
The 2026 date had not been announced when we read the listings; last year's was December 7.
Will events affect transport?
Large events can change road access and parking; check the organizer.
Sources
Facts on this page were read from the sources below on October 16, 2026. Hours, fares, prices and event dates change — confirm with the source before you travel. How we research and update.
- Upcoming Events — Empire State Plaza and New York State Capitol (NYS Office of General Services)
- OGS Announces Schedule for 2025-26 Winter at the Plaza Series — NYS Office of General Services
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